New York Giants Mock Draft 2015: Part 1

by Michael Stewart | NY Giants Rush Contributor

New York Giants Mock Draft 2015: Part 1

I’ve been covering the New York Giants for over 8 years now and each time I put together my version of a mock draft; I try to keep in mind what would GM Jerry Reese do. Unfortunately; year after year I could never come close to what Reese selects.

Reese is notorious for having a poker face and making selections that often times seems senseless. To his credit, Reese had some picks pan out (most recently Odell Beckham Jr.). However; Reese overall body of work is questionable and he needs to turn it around. The following mock draft is purely based on what I would like to see the Giants do and what Reese could do.

I will not reflect trades (which rarely happens with Reese anyway), although I would welcome trading back in the early rounds (Rounds 2 or 3) if needed for additional needed picks.

Round 1:

My Pick–Alvin (Bud) Dupree (DE) Kentucky (6’4/270): Despite the Giants placing the franchise tag on JPP. The Giants need to make sure that they have a backup plan in case JPP isn’t signed beyond next season. Dupree was a captain for the wildcats in 2014; and we all know how much stock Jerry Reese has in captains. Dupree has all the tools and can be a play-maker either from a 2 point or 3 point stance. Unless WR’s Amari Cooper, Kevin White or (DE) Dante Fowler Jr. slipped to #9 (which is possible, but very unlikely). This should be the selection for the Giants.

Reese’s Pick: DeVante Parker (WR) Louisville (6’3/210): Parker has outstanding body control, soft hands and the ability to catch the ball in traffic. Parker has a knack of adjusting to the ball well and will win many one on one matches. Parker will thrive in OC Ben McAdoo’s offensive system.

Conclusion: In my opinion, Dupree’s stock is rising and the fact that he was basically the only star defensive player for Kentucky speaks volumes for the ability. Reese selection of Parker who is very close to White and Cooper indicates his concerns for Cruz and also the possibility of not re-signing Rueben Randle after 2015. If Kevin White or Amari Cooper is still on the board, Reese will select either one with the 9th pick.

Round 2:

My Pick-Stephone Anthony (MLB) Clemson (6’2/245): Nasty demeanor and an explosive first step gives Anthony the edge over many opponents. Reads plays early, executes well; which puts him in position to make plays. Anthony is a 3 down MLB as he is equally capable against the run and short pass coverage. Anthony attacks the hole and displays good technique when tackling.

Reese’s Pick: Jalen Collins (CB) LSU (6’1/203): Rare combination of speed and power with the foot quickness unmatched by many of the CB in this draft. Collin’s equally effective against the run as well; with the desire to create contact. Collins ceiling is arguably the highest among all CB’s in this draft.

Conclusion: Reese and I at least agree on addressing the defensive side of the ball in round 2. Both are top-notch prospects and again, both will serve well for the Giants for many years to come.

Round 3:

My Pick–Tre Jackson (OG) Florida State (6’4/330): Very strong and excellent technique blocker. Jackson is very effective as a pulling guard, as he always finds someone to hit. Needs to work on his footwork, but all the tools are there for him to be a quality starting OG at the NFL level.

Reese’s Pick- Ali Marpet (OG) Hobart (6’4/307): Marpet had an exceptional combine; which put him more on the map. Marpet has quick feet and held his own at the Senior Bowl against better competition. Marpet has expressed interest in playing for the Giants and perhaps he could get his wish.

Conclusion: OG Jackson can start from day one and provide the New York Giants will dominate run blocking machine to help the running game. Marpet has a blue collar mentality and will battle on every down. I believe both of very solid OG and would be happy with either selection.

Round 4:

My Pick– Eric Rowe (CB) Utah (6’1/205): Good size and speed with a long frame. Has the ability to disrupt WR off the line and play man-to-man coverage. Rowe could be viewed as possibly a Free Saferty at the pro level by many teams since he played FS in his 1st three seasons at Utah before converting to CB. Rowe would be able to contribute in his rookie year as a rotational CB/FS in certain packages.

Reese’s pick- Lynden Trail (DE) Norfolk State (6’7/269): Trail is an intriguing prospect with his size and speed. Trail did well in the combine and could easily add 15-20 lbs to his frame without missing a beat. The main question will be: Can Trail play at a higher level and succeed?

Conclusion: In round 4. Defense is addressed and once again, Reese and I pick players who should make an immediate impact on defense. CB Rowe could very well be the FS the New York Giants are looking for if they choose to go in that direction; and DE Trail could be a great addition to the Giants DL.